Embracing English as a Global Language
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- 23 Apr 2023
The purpose of any language is to communicate one's thoughts, ideas, and feelings and to influence the listener. Regardless of what language we use to communicate, the idea is to make sure that the speaker's intention through his/her message can be comprehended by the one who is at the end of the communication loop.
But in a world that has many languages, how does one communicate? How can a person from one part of the world, belonging to Thailand, communicate with a person from America or India? It is no new knowledge to underline the fact that there are many languages in the world, spoken by various communities, and citizens of a nation-state, in different regions of the globe. Nevertheless, anyone could tell that English has emerged as a global language, interconnecting people from different cultures, social backgrounds, and nations.
With the advent of globalisation, the world has shrunk, and the need-to-know English has become a matter of common sense. Whether it is good or bad is a debate that can be discussed elsewhere. It is crucial to emphasise some of the reasons which support English as a global language and why it has become an important tool to harness various opportunities today.
Lingua Franca of the Modern World
English is the language that has been adopted by different speakers whose native languages are different from one another. As argued by some, it is a "key to being a global citizen". According to one estimate, almost 94 states use English as their official language. One cannot deny that in the modern age, it has made communication possible. Almost everyone in the world knows or understands the need to know the basic functional knowledge of English, for the same reason.
The mode of Instruction in Education
A solid command over language is of major significance when it comes to the sphere of education. Most of the Ministries of Education across the world have made instruction in English at a certain level essential to create competence among individual students. In the case of Higher Education, most of the courses that are introduced and taught in universities are majorly in English.
Key to accessing a wide knowledge
Since most books and reading materials are in English, it creates a possibility of learning and discovering a wide array of knowledge. Additionally, it is typically the case that the material in native languages is also translated into English, to spread the message to a wider public. Not limited to books alone, various other materials are also printed or translated into English.
Reduces the possibility of communication barriers
There is no doubt that one can live without communicating. Human beings are rational individuals who can think and communicate by articulating their thoughts and that is one important distinction that makes us different from the rest of the species. Since there is an inherent need to communicate, it becomes crucial to do it well. English reduces the possibility of creating communication hurdles. It provides a common context for easy understanding.
Allows interaction and expression
Like any other language whose purpose is to be able to create meaningful interaction, English as a medium of communication allows for effective interaction. It also allows creative expressions as hundreds of books are printed, and thousands of articles published, creating a culture of creativity and an informed public. From news channels to magazines & journals, from podcasts to blogs, a lot of print and electronic media interact with the public in English, creating a culture of information and awareness.
Open doors of Opportunities
Knowledge of any language creates opportunities in various sectors. English being universal in its character, can bring various opportunities to one's doorstep. A functional knowledge of English is the basic requirement in almost all sectors, be it in technology, law, or entertainment. There is always a chance to find one or the other job role if one has a strong command of English. This is especially if it is coupled with skill, technical or otherwise.
Official language of major organizations
English is one of the officials' languages accepted by international organizations. The United Nations, European Union, the World Bank, IMF, ASEAN, etc. acknowledge English as the official language. International Law, the declarations of the UN, various treaties, conventions, and conferences are mostly carried in English unless it is a regional group that strictly follows the country's language.
English indeed became the universal language back in the century. It has become the language of trade and business, diplomacy and governments, organizations and NGOs, diplomacy and law, and of the globalized world as well as the internet. It has made communication not only possible but also effective. One has to embrace a common language that can bind people across the globe for various reasons. As the world becomes more interconnected, with an increased interdependence and overlapping of various entities and actors over each other, the need to communicate is obvious. Nation-states are not closed systems; they are a part of a complex web of interrelationships. In such a scenario, English serves as the common tongue and can be seen in trade agreements and even diplomatic venture. However, it is argued that there exists a stark difference between those who speak English as a native language and the one who speak it as secondary.
One has to be reminded that it is not a "for or against" argument. Fortunately, or unfortunately, it cannot be denied that English has gained a universal character and relevance today. Communication would be incomplete without the use of a language that is understood by the public. The whole purpose of communicating is defeated otherwise. At least, as of now, English saves us from that barrier and as a language that has attained acceptance, it must be embraced.
At the same time, the native languages should not be forgotten. At least, those who are natives of a particular language, should continue to speak their mother tongue. Nevertheless, this should not be a negation of the present reality that English, indeed, is the language of the world. Realistically speaking, it would not change anytime soon. It is better to embrace it, then, with an intended effort and gain a functional knowledge of it.
I'd like to remind the readers that any language is only a means of communication. It is not a measure to know the intelligence of any individual. Nevertheless, there is no denying that English is important to know in the 21st century, and one must learn it without reservations. After all, it is truly a global language.
Insights from:
https://debatewise.org/2165-is-the-global-spread-of-english-good-or-bad/
https://yourcommonwealth.org/editors-pick/english-language-has-become-a-global-link/
https://hbr.org/2012/05/global-business-speaks-english
Annie Pruthi
Annie Pruthi is currently pursuing her master's in political science from JMI, New Delhi, and is a first division Arts graduate from the University of Delhi. She is an avid reader and an award-winning best-selling author. Her book "Will You Stay?" won the title of "Most Promising Book, 2020 (Fiction)" in the Coimbatore Literary Awards.
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